Beware Scams that Target Surviving Spouses

According to a recent article by AARP, "Each day, thousands of dead people fall victim to identity theft—costing their survivors pain and financial loss."  Identity theft is just one the ways that scammers will target those left vulnerable after  losing a loved one.  Other scams include  calls alleging to need money for grandchild in trouble, making demands for false debts, and offering large life insurance payouts for payment of a final premium.

Many of these scams use information found in the death notices on websites and newspapers to make their cons seem creditable.  While these scams are relatively common, they are particularly effective with those who are distraught.  In a Forbes article 'When A Loved One Dies, How To Protect Yourself From Scams, Identity Theft And Creeps', additional frauds are highlighted:  long lost relatives making inheritance claims, burglary and overcharging by service providers.

You can help protect your loved ones by alerting them to these types of fraud and helping them protect their assets.